Leeds United chairman responds to Russell Crowe speculation

Tony Harber

Leeds United chairman Andrew Umbers has reiterated that the club is not for sale amid a Twitter frenzy caused by Hollywood actor Russell Crowe asking fans whether he should consider putting a bid in.

Lifelong Leeds supporter Crowe caused a real stir among supporters yesterday when, replying to a tweet from a supporter asking him if he would consider buying Leeds, he asked his 1.6 million Twitter followers whether or not he should buy the club.

He is no stranger to running sports clubs as he is currently the owner of the South Sydney Rabbitohs Rugby League team, who became world champions when they beat St Helens last Sunday.

His Leeds United question was met with a massive response as fans quickly warmed to the idea and with Massimo Cellino’s ongoing problems with the Football League speculation gathered that a deal could be considered.

But chairman Umbers has quickly dismissed talk of a takeover and the club said that there had been no contact with Crowe or his representatives.

“The club is not for sale, nor do the Cellino family wish to sell and nor have we received any approaches contrary to reports in the press,” Umbers told BBC Sport.

“The ongoing legal discussions between Massimo Cellino and the Football League are being completely misinterpreted.

“Leeds United is currently being successfully restructured, rebuilt, significantly invested in, with care and planning for the longer term with the Cellino family at its heart, for the benefit of its long-suffering and passionate fans, the city and its players and staff.”